Destiny 2’s Renegades expansion introduces a fresh batch of powerful weapons that reshape the meta for both PvE and PvP encounters. These armaments, ranging from high-fire-rate SMGs to devastating heavy hitters, offer versatile perks and elemental affinities to suit any Guardian’s playstyle. This guide ranks the standout options, details optimal configurations, and explains how to acquire them, helping you build loadouts that excel in raids, dungeons, and Crucible matches.
Understanding the Renegades Weapon Pool
The Renegades weapon set emphasizes adaptability, with frames designed for burst damage, sustained fire, and crowd control. Primary weapons like scout rifles and SMGs shine in precision and close-quarters combat, while specials and heavies deliver the punch needed for majors and bosses. Key factors in their strength include perk synergies, artifact mod support, and elemental matchups against enemy shields.
Players should prioritize weapons with perks like Dynamic Heat for pistols or high RPM for SMGs, as these enhance time-to-kill (TTK) and survivability. In PvE, burst potential against champions and adds is crucial, whereas PvP favors handling and stability for duels.
S-Tier Powerhouses: Must-Have Renegades Weapons
These top-tier weapons define the current meta, offering unmatched performance across activities.
- Praxic Blade: This kinetic special sword stands out with its heavy hits and extensive customization. Ideal for light-attack movement builds, it benefits from artifact perks for mobility and damage spikes. Farm it through focused activities for upgrades like Energy Conduit catalyst.
- Mos Athanor IV: A versatile fusion rifle that melts shields and groups. Its perks amplify charged shots, making it a raid staple.
- Psi Aeterna IV: Lands firmly in high tiers for reliable performance in mixed content. Excels with balanced stats and strong perk pools.
A-Tier Standouts: Versatile Choices for Any Loadout
A-Tier weapons provide excellent utility without the grind of S-Tier exclusives.
| Weapon | Type | Best For | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cataphract GL3 | Heavy Grenade Launcher | PvE Burst | Adaptive Frame, Add Clear |
| Modified B-7 | Pistol | Burst Damage | Dynamic Heat |
| The Immortal | Strand SMG | Close-Range PvP/PvE | 720 RPM |
Cataphract GL3 Breakdown
As an adaptive-frame heavy grenade launcher, Cataphract GL3 delivers explosive burst damage perfect for add clear and boss DPS phases. Its perk combinations shine in PvE, though it holds up in PvP for flexible heavy slots.
Modified B-7: Heat-Managed Lethality
The Dynamic Heat origin trait rewards precise burst firing, building heat for enhanced damage against elites. Base stats ensure A-Tier viability across ranges.
The Immortal SMG
With 720 RPM and Strand synergy, this SMG shreds in close quarters. Fast TTK makes it a PvP monster, while Strand builds boost PvE clears.
B-Tier Options: Situational Excellence
These weapons excel in niche scenarios but lack universal appeal.
- Oxygen SR3: Solar scout rifle (180 RPM) with precision-frame balance. Pinnacle reward for long-range precision PvE.
- Refurbished A499: Heavy-hitting sniper for boss damage, but unforgiving on misses. Best for precision players.
- Corundum Hammer: Hand cannon with strong contender status in mid-range fights.
Other Notable Mentions
Weapons like Uncivil Debate, Compact Defender, Motif-41, and M-17 Fast Talker round out the pool. Compact Defender offers defensive utility, while Motif-41 provides pulse rifle reliability.
Farming Strategies for Renegades Weapons
Acquire these through Renegades activities, engrams, and focused umbrals. Prioritize high-stat rolls and craftable variants where possible. Swords like Praxic Blade require specific upgrades via vendor quests.
God Roll Recommendations
| Weapon | Barrel | Magazine | Perk 1 | Perk 2 | Masterwork |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Praxic Blade | Thrust-12 | Improved Guard | Energy Conduit | Bait and Switch | Damage |
| Cataphract GL3 | Confined Launch | Proximity Mag | Envious Assassin | Bait and Switch | Velocity |
| The Immortal | Arrowhead Brake | Accurized Rounds | Dynamic Heat | Target Lock | Range |
PvE vs PvP: Tailoring Your Loadout
In PvE, prioritize burst and add clear like GLs and SMGs. PvP favors high RPM primaries for TTK. Hybrid weapons like The Immortal bridge both worlds.
Artifact and Mod Synergies
Renegades artifacts boost sword mobility and fusion damage, elevating Praxic Blade and Mos Athanor IV. Pair with elemental surges for shield breaking.
FAQ
What is the best sword in Destiny 2 Renegades?
Praxic Blade dominates with its kinetic special ammo and movement perks.
How do I farm Psi Aeterna IV?
Target Renegades engrams and activities for drops, focusing on high-tier pools.
Are Renegades weapons craftable?
Some like those from raids offer patterns after multiple drops.
Best heavy for PvE in Renegades?
Cataphract GL3 for versatility.
Top SMG for PvP?
The Immortal’s 720 RPM shreds opponents.
References
- Destiny 2 All Renegades Weapons Ranked — Overgear. 2024. https://overgear.com/guides/destiny2/all-renegades-weapons-ranked/
- Best Destiny 2 Weapons: PvE, PvP and Exotics — Blueberries GG. 2024. https://www.blueberries.gg/weapons/destiny-2-best-weapons/
- Every Weapon You Need for Endgame PvE in Destiny 2: Renegades — YouTube (Video). 2024.
- Every Weapon Worth Grinding For in Renegades — YouTube (Video). 2024.
- Top 5 Meta Weapons in Destiny 2 Renegades (No BS) — YouTube (Video). 2024.
- These are the MUST-HAVE Weapons of Destiny 2 Renegades! — YouTube (Video). 2024.
- Destiny 2 Best PvE Weapons Today (Renegades) — Blueberries GG. 2024. https://www.blueberries.gg/weapons/best-pve-weapons/